FINDING LEGAL HELP

Finding good legal advice and making sound decisions now, can help
prevent difficult and costly problems in the future. As is true when
purchasing any product or service, it is important to be a smart
consumer. The following 12 questions may help you to be a smart legal
consumer.

1. Do I need a lawyer?

Lawyers can assist you in resolving disputes or asserting your rights;
however, there may be many ways in which you can resolve a matter
without the specialized assistance of a lawyer. A number of legal
problems may be solved without having to hire a lawyer. In deciding
whether to hire a lawyer, you should consider the following:

Is the matter a complex legal issue or one that is likely to go to
court?

Is a form or self-help book available that you can use instead of hiring
a lawyer?

Is a large amount of money, property, or time involved?

Are there any nonlawyer legal resources available to assist you?

On one hand, for example, the preparation of a trust or a guardianship
proceeding is generally complicated and requires the assistance of a
lawyer. On the other hand, many sources (including AARP/LCE) can provide
you with a living will form appropriate for your state as well as
information on how to complete the form. Your local bank can assist you
in setting up a joint bank account, while your local long- term care
ombudsman can help you in resolving a complaint with a nursing home. You
can locate your ombudsman through your local office on aging.